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Recreation Intern Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Intern information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do recreation intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation intern in Springfield, MA is $16.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation intern?

Recreation Interns are students or recent graduates who work under the supervision of recreation professionals to gain practical experience in organizing, planning, and leading recreational programs and activities. They assist with tasks such as event planning, activity coordination, community outreach, and facility management in settings like parks, community centers, or camps. The role provides hands-on learning opportunities and helps interns develop skills needed for a career in recreation or related fields.

What is the difference between Recreation Intern vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation InternRecreation Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework; some certifications may be preferredBachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR/First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in recreational programs, often in parks, community centers, or sports facilitiesManages and oversees recreational programs, staff, and facilities in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks departments, community centers, and recreational organizations for entry-level rolesUsed for supervisory roles in similar organizations, involving program planning and staff management

The main difference between a Recreation Intern and a Recreation Coordinator lies in experience and responsibilities. Interns typically assist with programs and gain experience, while Coordinators oversee and manage recreational activities and staff. Both roles are vital in community recreation settings, but the Coordinator position requires more experience and often a relevant degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Intern, you generally need coursework or a degree in recreation, physical education, or a related field, along with basic knowledge of program planning and implementation. Familiarity with scheduling software, Microsoft Office, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability help you effectively engage participants and manage group dynamics. These skills are crucial for delivering safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational activities that meet community needs.

What kinds of projects or responsibilities can a recreation intern expect to handle during their internship?

As a Recreation Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects that support the planning, coordination, and delivery of recreational programs and community events. Typical responsibilities might include assisting with event setup and logistics, helping to develop activity schedules, supporting participant engagement, and collaborating with staff to evaluate program success. Interns often gain hands-on experience in both administrative and direct-service capacities, making this role a valuable stepping stone for a career in recreation or community services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Intern jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Intern jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Recreation Intern jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Recreation Intern job openings:
Recreation Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Intern job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,312 per year, or $17 per hour.

Contracted Student Interns - Service Forestry Intern - Western Region (UNPAID)

Department of Conservation & Recreation

Amherst, MA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Information:
Contracted Student Intern: Service Forestry Intern - Western Region
Start/End Date: 9/21/2026 - 12/4/2026
Salary Rate: $0.00 (UNPAID Student Internship)
Weekly Hours: 20 hours
Location: 40 Cold Storage Drive, Amherst, MA
Number of Openings: 1 position
Who We Are:
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.
Who We Are as an Employer:
At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) oversees nearly half a million acres of land, making up one of the largest and most diverse state park systems in the country. Our work focuses on nurturing the vital connection between people and the environment by protecting, promoting, and enhancing our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. DCR infrastructure connects people to and through the beautiful landscapes and accessible recreational facilities we care for - strengthening our communities and driving our economy. Our staff strive to build a healthier, more resilient Massachusetts where all residents and visitors can relax, reflect and feel a sense of belonging in our open spaces and public lands. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov .
Job Opening:
The Department of Conservation and Recreation, seeks applicants for a Service Forestry Intern - Western Region (Contracted Student Interns Unpaid), 2026 Fall Semester to perform the duties listed below.
Please submit a cover letter and resume as part of the application process.
This internship is unpaid and designed to support students or recent graduates seeking practical experience in the field. Interns may be eligible to earn academic credit through their college or university.
General Statement of Duties and Job Responsibilities:
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) seeks an intern to support the Service Forestry Program for a period of 6-8 weeks during the Summer 2026 season. Also known as Private Lands Forestry, the program provides education, information, support and technical expertise to landowners and municipalities throughout the Commonwealth so owners can make informed decisions about their forested properties.
The intern would support the duties of the office staff in tasks including but not limited to: filing; scanning CH 132 and CH 61 in to electronic files for a historical data project; assisting with cataloguing educational materials and updating spreadsheets with current inventory. Opportunities to attend outreach events, workshops, and do field site visits with a Service Forester will be encouraged when schedule allows. Office vs Field hours will be 2:1 ratio.
MA DCR is an organization committed to diversity. This internship program pays particular attention to groups underrepresented in the natural resources workforce including but not limited to: African American/Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Alaskan Native, Hispanic/Latino, and people that identify as LGBTQ+ or with disabilities. Members of the Environmental Justice (EJ) community are encouraged to apply.
Detailed Statement of Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Enter, track, and assist with processing submission under both the Ch 132 (forest cutting plans) and Ch 61 (forest management/stewardship) programs utilizing the appropriate online portal and/or database.
  • Filing paper-based plans.
  • Reviewing digitized/scanned files for accuracy and updating electron locations with any related hard copy documents.
  • Consolidating duplicate online file locations and parsing out data from files for sorting/reporting capabilities.
  • Developing a catalog of current publications on hand; distributing materials to other offices as requested/needed.
  • Responding to requests for materials, in print and/or electronically, from internal and external entities.
  • Other duties as assigned

Preferred Skills:
  • Excellent communications skills in written and oral communication.
  • Organization and attention to detail a must.
  • Basic experience with Microsoft Office and SharePoint.
  • Comfort working independently and collaboratively with a team (preferred).

Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Please see Preferred Qualifications.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

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